Working freelance in Exeter: What you need to know
Many people decide to go freelance for a number of reasons. Perhaps you can’t get the job you’re looking for in your desired field and, therefore, wish to go self-employed, or maybe you’re hoping for more flexible working patterns and hours. Living in the West Country may not have the job opportunities in your desired field, which is where freelancing may become the best option for you, dependent on your chosen sector.
Freelancing is a great way of obtaining more freedom over your own career. If you’re looking to go freelance, you may have a number of questions that need answering in order to make your mind up and quit your current, full-time position. Here are some of the best pieces of advice if you’re considering going freelance:
What skills do I need?
In most cases, anyone can become a freelancer, providing they have the relevant skills that the employer is looking for. In general terms, a freelancer will need to have a high level of motivation, as there will be no-one watching your back to get the work completed. Likewise, you’ll also need to be extremely organised in order to hit the deadlines that the employer has set. You’ll need to have the relevant skills to work in your desired industry, as there will be a significant amount of competition that you’re likely to come up against.
Do be aware that most employers won’t simply hire you without seeing examples of your work, meaning you’ll need to build up a portfolio beforehand. You may also be expected to have certain qualifications to prove you have the experience and theorical knowledge to become a successful freelancer.
You may be expected to travel
Although most freelancers work from home, there’s a very high likelihood that you will have to travel to an on-site location to work with full-time staff members. Exeter and the surrounding areas may not have the opportunities you’re looking for, so having to travel out of the area is a high possibility. Working on-site is usually the case when projects are run across a team, meaning you will need to work alongside some of the company’s current employees.
In some cases, you will get travel expenses, but if not, you will get paid a significantly higher rate for your day of work. Most freelance-hiring companies are in the larger UK cities such as Manchester, London, Liverpool and Birmingham. When staying away from home on a regular basis, you want to be sure the accommodation you choose is luxurious and gives you that home-from-home comfort. If a freelance job comes up in Manchester, for example, you could look into hiring a plush apartment such as Native Manchester. This Grade II listed building features 166 studio and penthouse apartments, and it is conveniently located next to Manchester Piccadilly train station, so you haven’t got far to venture if you plan on catching a train from Plymouth to Manchester.
How much do you get paid?
Freelancers are typically paid at a standard hourly rate or per project completed. If you have a vast amount of experience under your belt and have been working in the industry for many years, the employer may ask how much you charge, which means you can set your own rate. Do be aware that prices may have to be negotiated, depending on the company’s budget, so you don’t lose out on work. It is also your responsibility to send invoices, chase payments and sort your own taxes.
